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Warner Bros.’ Solo Batman Film Finds Its Post-Affleck Director

It looks like The Batman a new boss: Matt Reeves, director of “Cloverfield” and the upcoming “War of the Planet of the Apes,” in in “early talks” to take over for Ben Affleck as director of Warner Bros.’ upcoming solo Batman film, as reported by multiple sources including Variety. According to the outlet, Reeves is “already committed” to the movie, but a deal isn’t yet official.

Reeves was targeted as the front-runner for the job since Affleck announced his departure late last month, as reported by Variety’s Justin Kroll shortly after the initial news broke. Reeves’ early credits include co-creating the TV series “Felicity” with J.J. Abrams, along with other TV work including directing episodes of “Homicide: Life on the Street.” His other feature credits include “Let Me In,” an American remake of Swedish horror film “Let the Right One In,” and 2014’s “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” which he took over from director Rupert Wyatt — showing that Reeves has some experience with stepping in on major genre films.

Affleck, who will star in the title role and co-wrote the script alongside veteran comics writer and DC Entertainment President & Chief Creative Officer Geoff Johns, has said he was unable to give both the role of star and director the “focus” required for the film, tentatively titled “The Batman.”

“There are certain characters who hold a special place in the hearts of millions,” Affleck said in a statement last month regarding his departure.”Performing this role demands focus, passion and the very best performance I can give. It has become clear that I cannot do both jobs to the level they require. Together with the studio, I have decided to find a partner in a director who will collaborate with me on this massive film. I am still in this, and we are making it, but we are currently looking for a director. I remain extremely committed to this project, and look forward to bringing this to life for fans around the world.”

It’s still not yet known when “The Batman” will start production. The film will be Affleck’s first solo film in the famous role that he first played in 2016’s “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice,” with his next appearance as Batman/Bruce Wayne in this fall’s “Justice League.” Reeves’ “War for the Planet of the Apes” is scheduled for release on July 14, 2017.